Getting around — Northern Dalmatia

Northern Dalmatia requires a car to fully enjoy its geographical diversity. Public transport is decent between cities but insufficient for national parks and less frequented sites.

The airport of Zadar (ZAD), 9 km east of the centre, is the main gateway — served by Ryanair, easyJet, Croatia Airlines, Eurowings and several European low-cost airlines. The airport shuttle reaches the bus station in 25 minutes for about €4. The airport of Split (SPU), 100 km southeast, is an alternative for those combining central and northern Dalmatia.

In Zadar, the historic peninsula is entirely pedestrianised and walkable. Liburnija buses serve residential neighbourhoods and beaches. The bus station is central, with frequent links to Šibenik (1h30), Plitvice (2h, 3-4 departures per day in high season), Split (3h) and Zagreb (3h30).

Car rental is highly recommended and all major agencies are at Zadar airport. Allow 1h30 from Zadar to Plitvice (via A1, Otočac or Gospić exit), 1h30 to Šibenik (via A1 motorway south), 45 min to Paklenica National Park, 45 min to Pag (via the famous Pag Bridge). The A1 and A7 motorways are modern and fluid but tolled (cumulative tolls Zagreb-Split: about €25).

Ferries serve the islands from Zadar: Dugi Otok (1h30 by ferry, 45 min by fast catamaran to Sali or Brbinj), Ugljan-Pašman (15 min to Preko from central Zadar), Iž and Molat (more seasonal lines). For the Kornati and the Murter archipelago, access is from Murter or Biograd na Moru: daily boat trips €60 to €100 per person. Sailing enthusiasts will find many rental agencies in Sukošan, Biograd and Murter — Northern Dalmatia is one of the best sailing spots in the Mediterranean.